boatman

I have a 2003 Quad Cab 5.9 HO Diesel / 48RE Auto Tranny. I want to install an Exhaust Brake. Anyone out there done this with this setup? What brands of brake, any information would be appreciated. (I know Dodge does not recommend a brake for this setup and the info on the Jacobs Web Page says no brake for the 2003 is on the way). I am new to Diesel Trucks and trying to learn

Stamey

You may want to upgrade the torque converter to use an E-brake. As I understand it, the tranny will hold it, but the TC is the weakest point in the drivetrain, just like with the 47RE.
Upgrades can be had from sources such as ATS (www.ATSDiesel.com).

Chris

Ranch Hand

I'm new to the diesels and to this site but I don't think an exhaust brake will do you any good with a auto trans.
Unless they have changed something sence 98.
In my truck when you let off the throttle the engine returns to idle the tranny disengages like you shifted to neutral.

Stamey

He'll need a torque converter controller, switch or Emjay, to keep the TC locked during decelleration.

Chris

BigBlue

I've heard different things. I know for a fact that the 48re can handle an exhaust brake from the factory. They offer it now as a factory option. Second, I've heard one or two people say that they are not going to do it anymore until they update the software in 04. I do know that it can handle it from the factory. Do a search in the 03 drive train section for "Firm Info on the 48re".

RCW

Try www.bd-power.com for an excellent exhaust brake for the 03. They also have the necessary switches and a converter upgrade if you need one.

By the way, I have over 99,258 miles on an 03 with the 48RE auto. It is equipped with the new Jacobs exhaust brake that is made for the standard transmissions. I had to add a TC lockup switch, tweak the wiring a bit to avoid error codes, and never run the exhaust brake in OD. The truck is used commercially, and operated by different drivers that all know how to drive it. OEM torque converter and never any problems with the transmission. The Jacobs unit is much more difficult to install than the BD product.

Stamey

[quote author=BigBlue link=board=13;threadid=19039;start=0#msg179257 date=1062437370]
I've heard different things. I know for a fact that the 48re can handle an exhaust brake from the factory. They offer it now as a factory option. Second, I've heard one or two people say that they are not going to do it anymore until they update the software in 04. I do know that it can handle it from the factory. Do a search in the 03 drive train section for "Firm Info on the 48re".
[/quote]

So does that mean the TC is strong enough in the stock 48RE?
I thought I had heard different, but perhaps I am mistaken.

Chris

BigBlue

It's stronger than the 47re's converter, but it is still the weak point in the tranny.

Check this out: https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/...;threadid=8175

RCW

I believe the torque converter is strong enough IF the driver exercises common sense and does not lock it up and pull to a stop or fail to lock it and shut the exhaust brake and cook the fluid from excess fluid shear on a long grade. Chat with the guys at BD and get some input from them.